2026 World Cup: I will bench Messi against Jordan – Argentina coach, Scaloni

Argentina head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has confirmed that he will leave captain Lionel Messi on the bench for their last 2026 World Cup group game against Jordan.

The champions have already qualified for the Round of 32, thanks to victories over Algeria and Austria.

Messi has scored all five goals for Scaloni’s men at the tournament.

But the Inter Miami superstar is set to be given a rest as the knockouts loom.

“The hope is that the team will play the same way. That’s what we’re going to try to do,” Scaloni said.

“Jordan is a good opponent, and we’re not taking anything for granted.

“We’ll try to tweak some aspects of the last match, but with the same intention of controlling the ball and dominating the opponent.”